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Entertainment

British Council brings Celtic music to the continent for Wales in France programme

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CELTIC music pioneers Catrin Finch and Aoife Ní Bhriain performed at the British Embassy in Paris on Friday (Mar 17) to mark the start of the Welsh Government’s Wales in France year.

The performance, supported by British Council Wales, was part of a year-long programme to celebrate the cultural, business and sporting links between Wales and France.

Welsh harpist and composer Catrin, who is originally from Llanon, is internationally renowned having been the Official Harpist to the Prince of Wales.

As a composer, she has recently undertaken commissions from Ballet Cymru, S4C and the National Eisteddfod of Wales. While Irish fiddle player Aoife, combines classical and traditional music and is known as one of her generation’s most gifted violinists. Together, they play music that is influenced and linked by the cultures of their home countries.

The collaboration is a Mwldan Production and was first performed at the Other Voices Music Festival in Cardigan in the autumn of 2022, which drew them huge acclaim. They now plan to release their debut album in October, before embarking on a UK and international tour.

The British Council, together with the Welsh Government, Wales Arts International and Arts Council Wales, will also support the Wales in France year through a programme of arts and cultural activity yet to be announced. This will support individuals and organisations in both Wales and France to connect, develop relationships and create new work across 2023.

Speaking about the Wales in France programme, Ruth Cocks, Director, British Council Wales said: “We were delighted be supporting the Welsh government’s Wales in France Year through our arts and education programmes. Wales has such a special history with France with our shared Celtic identities and links between our languages, music and culture. We’re very excited to support Welsh musicians at the launch in Paris, as well as work with our valued partners, Wales Arts International and Arts Council Wales. We wish Catrin and Aoife the best of luck with their performance and look forward to an exciting cross-cultural programme in 2023.”

Previously, the British Council has supported several arts projects linking Wales and France, most recently supporting the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and the Orchestre National de Bretagne in a series of joint concerts in 2022.

The Wales in France programme continues the British Council’s work, building connection, understanding and trust between people in the UK and overseas through arts, education and language teaching. To find out more about the British Council’s work in Wales visit https://wales.britishcouncil.org/ or follow on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

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Entertainment

Carew Castle Car Show: A timeless journey on wheels

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The Carew Castle Car Show is gearing up to offer an enchanting day for automotive enthusiasts and families alike. Scheduled for Monday, 6 May, from 10 am to 3 pm, the event promises to showcase a splendid array of classic and vintage cars, motorbikes, and military vehicles, all set against the historic backdrop of Carew Castle and Tidal Mill.

This year, the event is drawing participants and spectators from across South Wales, each eager to feast their eyes on the mechanical beauties that symbolize different eras of motoring history. The show, which has become a must-visit for anyone with a penchant for automotive culture, is also a celebration of community and craftsmanship.

Adding to the vehicular allure, the event will feature live performances by the popular Pembrokeshire folk band ‘Razor Bill’, known for their vibrant and engaging musical style. Attendees can also enjoy the thrills of funfair rides brought by Pembrokeshire Attractions, ensuring that there’s something enjoyable for every age group.

For families, the Brilliant Birds Treasure Trail offers a delightful educational experience, allowing children and parents alike to explore the natural and historical richness of the area. Culinary treats will be available as well, with fresh Welshcakes and bacon rolls being served from the opening hour, perfect for those looking to indulge in local flavors.

Despite the excitement, the organizers remind attendees that the show’s occurrence is weather-dependent. However, with hopes high for a sunny day, the community is buzzing with anticipation.

Visitors should note that normal castle admission fees apply, but the ticket includes access to the car show, making it a value-packed day out. While the show is fully booked for exhibiting vehicles, showcasing the high demand and popularity of the event, there are plenty of reasons for spectators to attend and enjoy the varied offerings.

For those planning to attend, it’s an opportunity not just to admire the craftsmanship of vintage and classic vehicles, but also to immerse in the cultural and festive atmosphere that only Carew Castle can offer. With its combination of history, entertainment, and community spirit, the Carew Castle Car Show is set to be a highlight of this spring season in South Wales.

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Entertainment

Kill Thy Neighbour – Review by Mike Dello

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SET in a Welsh coastal fishing village, this Torch Theatre production of “Kill Thy Neighbour” should not be confused with the 1970s hit comedy “Love Thy Neighbour.” The play, which opened on Wednesday, 24 April, is billed as a black comedy. It superbly mixes humour with deadly intrigue, keeping the audience guessing for the best part of two hours.

After a somewhat laborious start, the play develops into a thoroughly entertaining and unusual attraction that grips the audience right up to its macabre finale.

For obvious reasons, I don’t want to reveal too much. Delightfully written by Lucy Lovatt and directed by Chelsey Gillard, the main characters Caryl and Merion are portrayed brilliantly by Victoria John and Dafydd Emyr—a couple whose marriage is heading for the rocks. The plot takes another twist when their daughter Seren, played by Catrin Stuart, pays them a visit.

The play begins to find its stride by the interval, leaving one eager to discover what happens next. The garden shed holds a deadly secret, a nude painting is pivotal to the plot, and a former neighbour eventually sends an ice-cold chill down your spine.

There are many references to Pembrokeshire throughout the performance, and the Welsh accents are delightful to hear.

Even poor old Merion’s limp is convincingly portrayed, set in a single room that includes an authentic lobster pot. It all works to perfection right through to the final breathtaking scene.

“Kill Thy Neighbour” runs until 4 May and is well worth a visit to this magnificent theatre.


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Entertainment

New card game ‘Tenby’ set to arrive soon!

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TENBY is a captivating game that combines card drafting and strategic placement. Despite its abstract nature, it immerses players in the charm of the seaside town it’s named after, thanks to vibrant illustrations and recognisable landmarks.

The gameplay of Tenby focuses on tactics rather than luck. Players draft cards from a display and strategically place them in rows, following specific placement rules to maximise their scores based on feature adjacency. It’s quite the brain-teaser.

What makes Tenby truly stand out is its innovative action drafting system. Each round, players select actions from a shifting pool of cards, determining the turn order for the next round as well. This adds depth and strategy to each decision.

Tenby is suitable for all player counts, though it primarily offers a multiplayer-solitaire experience, which I personally appreciate. Turns are quick, ensuring there’s always something to ponder during downtime.

The vector art, while not my usual preference, bursts with colour and complements the game perfectly. I particularly enjoy the witty puns, such as the “Uptown Swirl” ice cream parlour!

It’s easy to learn and teach, with intuitive iconography. The unique action drafting mechanic adds layers of depth, and the vibrant art and theme increase its appeal.

After careful consideration, I struggled to find any downsides. Any suggestions I had are already on the designer’s to-do list, including an exciting solo mode!

For more information visit www.cosycubgames.com/games

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